6 Underrated Rides

5- Toyota MR2 (2000 - 2005)

The third time should have been the charm for the underrated little MR2 from Toyota. This here-again, gone-again sports car was at first an essentially better-conceived and executed alternative to the Pontiac Fiero (though the MR2 faithful tend to bristle at this comparison). After a brief absence from North America, the second generation arrived with more power and a fresh design, kind of like a diminutive Ferrari 348. A few years later, Toyota left us hanging again when Mister Two was pulled from the continent again.

Turns out they saved the best for last. 2000's reentry and redesign, this time as a convertible, was the most distinctive. Suddenly, Mazda's Miata had competition in bang-for-the-buck honors. And now, they're an even better deal. History has repeated itself: The MR2 will once again disappear from the continent after this year. Lame-duck models — however cool — are never dealers' favorites. Move fast for the best bargain while inventory remains.

What's more: Opinions vary on the name definition, but "Mid-engine, Rear-drive, 2-seater" is one of the most popular and logical. Unofficially, a "u" should be squeezed in for "underrated."

6- Acura NSX

The luxury sedan establishment was seriously jolted when Japan crashed the party 15-odd years ago. It was a sobering wake-up call when buyers defected to Acura, Infiniti and Lexus.

Acura broadened their horizons further when their mid-engine NSX hit the road. This time, the exotic car community took notice. A low-volume, high-performance car with reliability? Maintenance that didn't require weeks in the shop on a regular basis? Anyone who thought it couldn't happen was proved wrong.

We quickly point to the Porsche 911 as a timeless design, but often overlook the NSX. Its lines have gone a decade and a half without major revision. Some now dismiss it as dated, but we still find it unique and attractive. Inside, well, that's another matter. Here, the lack revision has produced an interior that fails to inspire drivers to a great degree. But that all changes when you're rewarded with amazing performance from the six cylinders pumping behind you. It's often said the best NSX is a used one: all the looks and performance without the new car price. Either way, it remains an underrated ride in its class.

What's more: If you must have that new car smell, keep in mind a redesign is on the way. Just don't expect major changes.

credit where credit is due

Just because a car is popular, it isn't necessarily the best of the bunch. There are plenty of models that perform as well or better. When it comes to underrated rides, the commercial tagline, "If you can find a better car, buy it," takes on new meaning. You just might find a better car... if you look for it.